Homes

Muted tones of grey and beige dance in rhythm at a Pune home by Alkesh Gangwal & Associates

MAY 20, 2024 | By Subikshaa Stalin
A hand-embroidered sliding art panel by Anek Taanka captures your attention, serving as a captivating backdrop to the dining area, inviting contemplation and conversation; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi
Fluted oak veneer chest of drawers with metal box detail tie up the design in the toddler’s room. The table hosts a bright hand-painted table lamp by Harshita Jhamtani Designs; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi
The toddler’s room allows for creative exploration with its open matted floor, a pegboard wall and open shelves fabricated in metal; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi
The living room offers a subtle nod to Japandi Luxury. All the wooden furniture is by Steeple Furniture & Beyond. Throw Cushions from Craft & Kar; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi
An L-shaped wall panelling in the dining room conceals the kitchen door, integrates a bar and creates a niche. The dining room puts together a varied collection consisting of a table vase from Gulmohar Lane, vases from Ikai Asai, a sleek lamp from Olie and furniture sourced from Steeple Furniture & Beyond; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi
Muted palettes of grey and beige seize the entrance and living spaces; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Amidst the buzzing energy of Kharadi neighbourhood in Pune, is a stunning home designed by Alkesh Gangwal & Associates. Within its 3,000 sq ft of luxurious vistas, this tranquil retreat blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian elegance.

The firm’s design philosophy centres on creating simple, clean spaces characterised by tidy lines and minimal use of materials, colours and textures — all of which are impeccably executed in the home. 

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
The painting is a standout among the soft lights and neutral colours; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Simple joys

The apartment is accessed through a private lift lobby where the ambience immediately envelops you in serenity. As you venture further, an exquisite hand-embroidered sliding art panel by Anek Taanka captures your attention, delicately delineating the transition between common and private spaces.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
Gradient India’s collection of three metal paintings inspired by the colours of the sky at different times of the day and Harshita Jhamtani Designs’ floor lamp lend the living room with a captivating charm. All the wooden furniture is by Steeple Furniture & Beyond. Terracotta throw from Altrove. Wall Finish by Kemtex Paints; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

 

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
A super minimal but functional TV wall stands out with its curved profile in the living room. The space features an array of furniture pieces exuding warmth: Wooden Log from Amra Homes, Vase by Gulmohar Lane, Side Table by West Elm. Wall Finish by Kemtex Paints; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

In the foyer, a bespoke shoe cabinet displaying the homeowners’ eclectic vinyl collection takes centre stage, revealing their unique tastes and personalities. The heart of the apartment reveals itself in the interconnected living and dining areas, where simplicity reigns supreme. L-shaped wall panelling not only defines the space but also cleverly conceals the kitchen door.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
The master bedroom features stunning shades of deep blue, a custom-made curved sofa and an ottoman by Steeple Furniture & Beyond. Floor Lamp from IKEA, throw from Oma. Flooring by Jalaram Timber. Wall Finish by Kemtex Paint; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Etched in wood

While talking about the conception of the space, associate architects Salonee and Ayush Gangwal draw attention to the 100-year-old reclaimed teak wood log console. “Working on the living and dining space granted us the liberty to incorporate distinctive features such as the curved TV Unit, the console piece and the embroidered sliding panel, all of which anchor the space with its warmth, history and sustainability,” the designers add.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
The bedroom next to the foyer hosts a cosy library and storage intelligently integrated with a folding bed furnished with accessories from Altrove; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Against a backdrop of white oak details, the first bedroom unfolds into a multifunctional space, integrating a study and a guest bedroom. Venturing further, the second bedroom beckons, offering a tranquil sanctuary for the mother. An open pooja space, adorned with brass inlay work, pays homage to tradition while blending with the modern aesthetic of the room.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
The natural cane rattan used in the furniture pieces imbues the room in rustic harmony; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Beyond the sliding art panels lie two more rooms, each thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of the family. The toddler’s room boasts integrated storage and playful elements, encouraging exploration and creativity, while the master bedroom exudes sophistication.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
The second bedroom is a comforting haven with a tasteful collection of decor; table lamp from West Elm. bedside reading lamp by Casegoods. Painting from Calcuttan. Wall Finish by Kemtex Paints; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

Minimalist interpretations

The home deftly allows for personalisation through subtle elements such as niches in the dining or bedrooms and the intentional bare wooden panelling.

Alkesh Gangwal & Associates
A striking light fixture that imitates a 2-D image sourced from LBH accompanied by a charcoal bed, nightstands and bench from Dtale Modern adorn the master bedroom; Photography by Yadnyesh Joshi

“The aim is not to overwhelm the senses but to offer havens of retreat and tranquillity,” explains Salonee and Ayush Gangwal. The subdued palette of beige, brown and greys meticulously paired with the furniture pieces creates an artful composition in every corner of the space, perfectly encapsulating its design statement.

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